Drag star The Vivienne died from cardiac arrest due to effects of taking ketamine, family says

The cause of death of RuPaul's Drag Race star The Vivienne has now been revealed by their family.

The Welsh star, real name James Lee Williams, died from a cardiac arrest caused by the effects of taking ketamine, according to their relatives.

The 32-year-old was found dead at their home in Cheshire in January, sending shockwaves through the entertainment world and devastating fans.

The beloved performer's sister, Chanel Williams, said that their family 'continue to be completely devastated' by the loss of the star.

The Vivienne's sister told the BBC: "Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK.

"If we can help raise awareness of the dangers of this drug and help people who may be dealing with ketamine addiction then something positive will come from this complete tragedy."

The Vivienne suffered a cardiac arrest in January, their family have revealed (Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for VH1/Paramount)

Talk To Frank explains that ketamine is a 'very powerful anaesthetic that can cause serious harm', warning that using it 'can be fatal, particularly if it is mixed with other drugs'.

It explains that the substance can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, as well as bladder problems, abdominal pain and even liver damage.

An inquest is set to take place in June into The Vivienne's death.

The Williams family decided to share the details of what led up to The Vivienne's death in the hopes of 'raising awareness'.

The star had opened up about their history with substance abuse during their time on the world-renowned show RuPaul's Drag Race.

The Vivienne's close friend and manager, Simon Jones, added: "I hope by us releasing this information we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do to your body."

The decision has been praised by campaigners, including Wales-based specialist detox and rehabilitation centre, Adferiad Mental Health and Addiction Support Services.

Adferiad's spokesperson Donna Chavez said they were 'incredibly grateful' to The Vivienne's family for their support.

"Their courage in sharing James' story will help raise vital awareness of the devastating impact substance use can have," Chavez said.

The drag star pictured with RuPaul in 2020 (Karwai Tang/WireImage)

"We are seeing a worrying rise in the number of people using ketamine, often unaware of the serious risks it poses to their physical and mental health.

"By opening conversations and challenging misconceptions, we can help prevent further tragedies and support those in need to find hope and recovery."

Tributes poured in for the popular drag queen on social media following their shock death, with stars including Michelle Visage saying they had been left 'heartbroken' by the news.

The Vivienne's former husband of six years, David Ludford, also shared a poignant post saying he will miss the star 'more than people will ever know' in the wake of their death.

The drag star - whose stage name was inspired by their love of Vivienne Westwood clothing - gained a legion of fans across the world after winning the first season of RuPaul's hit series in the UK in 2019.

The 32-year-old, who also came third in Dancing on Ice in 2023, was described as an 'incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person' by Jones.

Cheshire Police issued a statement in January explaining they were called to an address near Chester and that there were 'no suspicious circumstances'.

If you want friendly, confidential advice about drugs, you can talk to FRANK. You can call 0300 123 6600, text 82111 or contact through their website 24/7, or livechat from 2pm-6pm any day of the week .